Document Type

Publisher

Comments

Originally published in the Proceedings of the EDU-COM 2008 International Conference. Sustainability in Higher Education: Directions for Change, Edith Cowan University, Perth Western Australia, 19-21 November 2008.

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to develop an adaptive model of competency development for the electronics industry in Thailand. The study involved a questionnaire, interviews and observations. Eighty nine individuals completed the questionnaire. Interviews were conducted with 10 managers with high experience in competency development from five renowned companies which practiced competency development. Observation was conducted in the five companies. Our adaptive model consists of the following elements: (1) five electronics competency levels which can be compared to Thailand Vocational Qualification, (2) competencies development, and (3) a training model. The training model was composed of a training program, training module, 4H (head, hands, habits, and health) assessment, as well as monitoring and follow-up. This model is particularly well-suited to the electronics industry in Thailand; however, we suggest that it may be useful in other contexts as well. In countries such as Thailand where there are shortages of specialized labour, models such as ours will play an important role in filling gaps and providing the expertise needed for industry.